Rajasthan's Jai Moondra earns Ireland call-up for T20I series against India
Tonk, June 25
Jai Moondra, a native of Rajasthan's Tonk district, has been selected in the Ireland cricket team for the upcoming T20I series against India, bringing pride and joy to his family and hometown.
The 28-year-old cricketer moved to Ireland in 2021 on a student visa to pursue an M Tech degree. During his stay, he continued playing cricket while also working in the country. He obtained Irish citizenship in 2025 and has now earned a place in the national side.
According to family members, Jai's selection was driven by his aggressive bowling and strong batting performances, which helped him impress selectors and secure a spot in the Ireland squad for the series beginning on June 26.
Speaking to reporters, his younger sister, Mansi, said, "I am very happy that my brother's dream has come true. He has been playing cricket since childhood. I spoke to my brother, and all of us are very happy."
"Everyone is very happy. His childhood dream is coming true. It's a special feeling. Everyone is calling and coming to visit. We're all thrilled for him. He was studying and then got a job, but he always focused on cricket. He's been working hard and caught the eye of the selectors," his mom Vidya Moondra told reporters.
The achievement has sparked celebrations among his family in Tonk. Expressing her happiness, Jai's mother said that her son had fulfilled her dream by reaching the international stage.
India is scheduled to play two T20Is in Ireland on June 26 and 28, followed by a five-match T20I series in England starting July 1, which will be followed by three ODIs. The Ireland fixtures will mark India's first T20Is since their World Cup triumph earlier this year, with Shreyas Iyer set to lead the side in the format.
— ANI
Reader Comments
What a fantastic journey! From Indian student to Irish international cricketer. His mom must be so proud. I love how cricket connects people across the world. All the best to Jai for the T20I series against India!
Fantastic news for Rajasthan! But I'm also a bit sad that India lost a talented player to Ireland. Our system needs to do more to nurture talent in small towns so they don't have to go abroad to fulfill their dreams. Still, happy for Jai and his family. What a moment for Tonk!
This is the beauty of cricket - it gives opportunities to players from everywhere. I think it's wonderful that Jai will play against his home country. The Indian team will have to be careful, he might bowl a few sharp deliveries! 😄
Jai Moondra's story is truly inspiring. Studying for an M Tech while playing cricket and working is no joke. This shows the resilience of Indian youth. Ireland's gain is our loss, but I'll be cheering for him - after India wins the series, of course! 😊
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